Project 543 tells the story of unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places. Why 543? Because that’s the number of miles from Manteo, on the coast, to Murphy, in the mountains, and is traditionally considered to be the width of our state. The entries in this project are in no particular order, and we’ll add to them each week. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com.

What is Project 543?

Project 543 tells the story of unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places. Why 543? Because that’s the number of miles from Manteo, on the coast, to Murphy, in the mountains, and is traditionally considered to be the width of our state. The entries in this project are in no particular order, and we’ll add to them each week. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com.

Search 543

Keep the doctor away at the historic Orchard at Altapass

While the Orchard at Altapass is only one of 300 apple operations in North Carolina, it is unique as a center for Appalachian culture as well as scenic beauty and historical significance. Started in 1908, the Orchard at Altapass was at times a trail for Cherokee hunters and European settlers, a stop along the route of the Revolutionary War’s Overmountain Men, an obstacle that was split in two by the creation of the Blue Ridge Parkway and a site that could have been turned into a housing development. Fortunately for visitors to North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, it has remained an Appalachian Cultural Center celebrating the people, music, art, and natural beauty of the area. From hayrides to authentic local music and mountain arts and crafts, the Orchard at Altapass has something for everyone and is one of the top family attractions in the mountains. Built by the Clinchfield Railroad and located on a bluff that offers amazing views, the Orchard is one of the most popular stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway, especially during the fall color season. Visitors pick their own mountain apples, or choose from bags of hand-picked fruit. The Orchard also serves products from its own apples, jams, jellies, sauces, fudge, gifts and more.